“Ideas change the world. The power of a new idea is the engine that transforms the way we live and think.” - Richard Stengel
In 1962, the philosopher Thomas Kuhn coined the term ‘paradigm shift’ - the moment when our worldview fundamentally changes because of a new idea.
In his opinion, science and innovation could never evolve until most of those working within a similar field agree upon a paradigm.
He stated that once a paradigm theory is established, those working within it can start doing what Kuhn called “normal science’ i.e. innovation and the business of solving specific problems, collecting data, making calculations, and so on.
In essence, a paradigm shift leads to new ideas which can then cause a fundamental and/or monumental change or disruption occurs in current perception.
What does this mean for your brand and reputation?
Simply this: it is the paradigm shifters and ideators that truly change the world. The ones who are unafraid to shift the way people see, think and experience the world. The bold visionaries. You.
Insight Inspiration:
So how can you become a bold visionary and a paradigm shifter?
1. Use mind-expanding thinking.
This will help you to uncover the best that’s possible with your ideas. Clarify what you’re ideating with crisply defined challenge questions.
For example, if your brand purpose is to create custom made sustainable fashion ask yourself how it’s going to change the world and “in what way?”
In what way might you improve sustainable production of clothes? In what way might you add value to both your tailors and customers?
Such challenge questions spur the brain to search for alternative answers, and that’s what creativity is all about.
2. Write down as many answers and ideas as possible.
The greater the number of ideas you come up with, the higher the chance of producing a radical and unconventional solution.
Research shows that it takes 80 to 100 raw ideas to find one that is worth further consideration.
3. Greenlight everything.
Our natural human tendency is to want to analyse, discuss and even shut down the merits of ideas.
However the objective of an ideating exercise is to dream up lots of ideas and withhold judgement during the process.
Greenlight all ideas and consider all their merits. Because as discussed, the more, the better.
4. Go wild.
“If at first an idea doesn’t sound absurd, then there’s no hope for it.” (Einstein)
Think outside the box and generate unusual ideas, bold ideas, humorous ideas and even the absolutely absurd.
5. Share your ideas
Share your concepts with trusted confidantes who believe in you and your brand, idea and/or business. Gauge their enthusiasm for a new idea.
Take notes of their feedback and see how you can improve.
Becoming a paradigm shifter takes courage and persistence. There is nothing that is impossible. There will always be a way.
Think on it.
